Join the naturalist and a couple of special guests on Saturday, July 19 for the annual Buena Vista County Conservation’s Animal Afternoon.

Jason Gustafson from Smokin’ Barrels hunting preserve will start the afternoon off at 1 p.m. He will share his knowledge of raising pheasants and what life is like on a game farm. He will bring a few pheasants for you to meet as well.

After Marta Sandoval delivered her speech at the Star Spangled Spectacular Friday, her husband Jorge wanted to take a picture of her. However there was some lighthearted interference by one of the Legion riders. Times photo by Dolores Cullen

Faith, Hope & Charity invites you to make a splash and get ridiculous with the Taste of Storm Lake on July 17 from 4:30-7 p.m. Come to downtown Lake Avenue for a great meal as part of Storm Lake’s Ridiculous Days celebration. A team of volunteers and FHC Transitional Home consumers will be serving a tasty meal, including locally-smoked rib tips, chips, baked beans, pop or water and ice cream, all for $7. Our sincerest appreciation goes out to Hy-Vee for helping make this event possible year after year.

Monday morning we made goodie boxes for the Dinner Date in Sioux Rapids, Linn Grove and Peterson. We had little boxes that we made in 4th of July paper and then filled them with candy. We really enjoyed putting them together. They will be delivered on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The summer months traditionally bring a dip in blood donations. This decline can often be attributed to busy summer schedules, vacations, outdoor events and summer breaks in schools. In order to prevent blood shortages this summer in local hospitals, LifeServe Blood Center needs Storm Lake residents to roll up their sleeves and give the gift of life.